20 Attractions to Explore Near Sanford Lake

The Sanford Historical Museum is a treasure trove of knowledge and fun. Located close to Wixom Lake, the museum provides an ideal setting for learning about the region's past. From Native American artifacts and clothing to exhibits on lumbering and railroad history, the museum offers an engaging exploration of Michigan's local traditions. There are also educational resources for children; interactive displays depict how animal pelts were prepared by early settlers.

The Pere Marquette Rail Trail is a spectacular outdoor experience. Spanning over 30 miles, it serves as a stunningly beautiful recreational trail encompassing lakes, woods and prairies. Formerly an old railroad line, the path is wide and flat, gently winding along scenic views of Chippewa River, Salt Creek and Warner Creek. Adventurers can enjoy bicycling, running or walking the diverse wildlife areas. It also provides horseback riding trails for more experienced riders.

Bradley Home/Carriage House Hall is a historical site with a rich and varied history. The main house was originally built by Mayhew and Daisy Bradley in the early 1920s, with the Carriage House being added later. Over the years, many renovations and updates have been made to both buildings. Today, the main house serves as a museum open to visitors featuring photographs of the original homesteaders and artifacts from the Bradley family.

Emerson Park is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. This sprawling park features a variety of activities and experiences—from fishing on the Sanford Lake beachfront to exploring the winding hiking trails of Emerson Park Woods. Guests can also take advantage of shelters for group events, picnic areas, children's playgrounds, and expansive open spaces perfect for lounging around.

Chippewa Nature Center is a popular destination for outdoor lovers. CNC offers both nature exploration and long-distance hiking trails. With over 18 miles of trails to explore, visitors can observe interesting wildlife or simply enjoy the scenic views. From cats to wolves and even songbirds, animal life abounds at CNC. In addition to the trails, CNC also has several educational classes offered each month with the intent of teaching visitors about Michigan's natural environment.

The Midland Center for the Arts provides locals and visitors to the area with a dynamic and exciting performing arts center. From quality live theater performances to classical music and dance, this center offers a wide variety of experiences for their patrons. Additionally, the center also hosts a number of educational activities for students such as workshops, lectures, classes and camps that emphasize positive learning experiences.

Dow Gardens is a beautiful natural wonder that visitors from all over love to explore. Featuring 110 acres of oak grove and gorgeous gardens filled with conifers, ornamental shrubs, perennial beds, and a stately formal garden design, it is one of the most popular attractions in Midland County. There are seven miles of trails that meander through wooded terrain and flowers fields suitable for leisurely strolls or quick jogs.

Chippewassee Park is a nature lover's paradise. Situated on the convergence of several rivers, this park offers many outdoor activities for those looking to enjoy nature orexperience the unique wildlife in the area. Popular activities include camping, fishing and swimming in one of its two dazzling lakes, Talina and Appling. With over 19 miles of unpaved trails perfect for biking and hiking, there are plenty of opportunities to explore the beautiful terrain.

The Pere Marquette Rail Trail is a great place for outdoor enthusiasts to explore. Stretching for over 25 miles and providing an all-season path, it's ideal for walking, running, hiking, biking, snowmobiling and cross-country skiing. With unique views of the Tittabawassee River and Six Mile Creek, it's easy to discover something new no matter how many times you visit. The trail also features several access points that can be used as stops or parking locations along the way.

The Tridge is an impressive sight to behold. Built in 1981 by volunteers from the local Kiwassee Kiwanis Club, the three-way wooden bridge spans the confluence of the Chippewa and Tittabawassee rivers. At 100 feet long and surrounded by lush park lands and beautiful views of sunsets over the river, it's become a favorite spot for locals to enjoy picnics, fishing outings, and weekend walks. Its distinct design means that no matter which way you view it.

Stratford Woods Park is a natural oasis set amidst the hustle and bustle of a large metropolitan area. It consists of 100 acres of lush forest and winding trails that beg visitors to explore its interior. Wildlife such as white-tailed deer, red foxes and various species of birds inhabit this scenic park, providing a serene setting for hikers, bikers and runners alike. Camping, fishing, boating and nature watching are popular pastimes at the park as well.

Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort offers something for everyone – from the seasoned gambler to those just looking for a fun night out. There are over 4,300 slot machines and 70 table games available. Enjoy a cozy night in one of their luxury rooms or suites, where guests are treated to breathtaking views of the soaring eagle sculpture. Those looking for great entertainment can attend national touring shows at the indoor performance hall or outdoor music festival space.

Stone Cottage Gardens located on 20 acres of lush greenery. Visitors can enjoy the beauty of nature and explore the many trails which wind through woods, fields, and streams. Stone Cottage offers accommodations for up to 50 guests in cottages, with a large banquet hall perfect for hosting events and weddings. It include a large pond, with plenty of fish and other wildlife that keep it lively. Stone Cottage also offers a range of activities, like gardening workshops and farm-to-table dinners.

Nelson Park is a beautiful 72 acre facility featuring more than two miles of walking trails. Along with two playgrounds for children and plenty of open space, visitors also enjoy the disc golf course and abundant wildlife that can be spotted alongside the trails. There is something for everyone at Nelson Park – anglers can take advantage of ample fishing opportunities, and the picnic shelter provides the perfect place to unwind after a day outdoors.

Central Michigan University, is lauded for its high-quality academics and commitment to student success. Boasting over 250 academic programs, CMU offers numerous pathways for students to gain knowledge and skills in whatever field interests them most. Facilities such as a learning commons featuring self-serve options, a library where patrons can access digital resources and the newest technology equipment provide valuable resources for students.

This venue is home to the Central Michigan University Chippewas football team and has been recognized as one of the most iconic stadiums in the state. With a seating capacity of over 30,000 people and beautiful views of Mount Pleasant City and its surrounding area, Kelly/Shorts Stadium is truly an inspiring sight. It includes many facilities such as new concession stands, upgraded student sections, a luxuriously appointed suite area, and plenty of grassy areas for tailgating activities.

Mill Pond Park is the perfect place to experience natural beauty. Nestled in a tranquil woodland setting, this beautiful park is a wonderful destination for bikers, hikers, and nature lovers alike. Whether walking along the paved path that circles the Mill Pond or taking advantage of one of the designated picnic areas, visitors will enjoy its peaceful atmosphere as they take in stunning views of trails snaking through dense trees and bright flowers dotting the landscape.

Theunissen Stadium, is a multi-purpose athletic facility built to support the sports and student body of Central Michigan University. It features astroturf fields for football, soccer, lacrosse and intramural activities. The stadium alsohas an Olympic size running track with two jumps. Additionally, there are three tennis courts and lights for night play. Built in 1960, Theunissen Stadium has been honored nationally for its excellence as an intercollegiate venue.

Pratt Lake, is a peaceful destination for outdoor recreation. This lake is located in the rural hills of East-Central Michigan and offers activities such as fishing, swimming, kayaking and boating on its crystal clear waters. From the wooded shoreline to the beautiful sunsets reflecting off the lake's surface, Pratt Lake is an idyllic setting for campers, hikers and sight-seers alike. With its plentiful wildlife and seven miles of trails to explore, visitors have plenty of opportunities.

Tobico Marsh Nature Area is a unique and stunningly beautiful marshland. Over two thousand acres of wetlands make up this nature area, with it being one of the largest freshwater estuaries in the state of Michigan. The area is characterized by a wide variety of vegetation including tall native cottonwood trees, cattails, and bulrushes as well as other species like bullfrogs, painted turtles, and great blue herons that can be frequently sighted in the area.